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PA House OKs proposed pet euthanasia standards

(Harrisburg) -- The state House has approved a bill to set new standards for the euthanasia of dogs, cats and other pets.

The legislation has cleared the House by a vote of 189-6.

The measure builds on a Senate bill passed earlier this year to ban the use of carbon monoxide to put down a pet.

The House bill bans carbon monoxide but also requires shelters to use only drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration for euthanasia. It specifies that the drugs be administered as directed by veterinarians or others under a veterinarian's supervision.

It preserves existing law allowing people to put down their pets with guns.

Rep. John Maher, an Allegheny County Republican, says House supporters have worked with senators to forge a compromise.